Kaylin Talker Jo

"You're eating like a monkey" I think she said to me 3 times before I answered her. (I was eating a banana.)

At times I just get in a zone and everything the kids say blends together. With their constant arguing and fighting, my mind has learned how to tune stuff out. I also think there are times though where I need to stay on-track with them better and respond more immediately. It's hard to find the balance. She is always talking! Ben asked me during his sick week when he couldn't take it any more, "Is she always like this?!" "Like what?" I asked, completely confused. "Talking! nonstop all day long every day!" "Yes," I laughed, "I don't even notice it any more."

But most of the time I too am annoyed. I feel like she's at an age now where we need to instruct her on when it is appropriate to talk and what things are worth talking about. How on earth do I go about that? Another mom mentioned telling her daughter recently "you don't need to tell me about everything." I do not want to crush her spirit. But I also think I would have a more positive attitude toward her when she does talk if she would stop once in awhile! She is my little narrator. We are working on bossiness and tattling less - I suppose if we get those under control she won't have much left to say!

I'd love to hear your ideas.